The team most often mentioned as a potential landing spot for Cousins is the Browns, where former Redskins offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan now holds the same title.

“You would have to ask Cleveland, I don’t know how they had their quarterbacks ranked in this draft,” said Allen when asked if the Browns had any interest in Cousins. “Obviously, they made a big play in getting the quarterback they did in the first round so I don’t know if there ever was any serious interest.”

The “big play” was a trade up in the first round to get Texas A&M quarterback Johnny Manziel.

What to make of the conflicting accounts? It’s difficult to reconcile La Canfora’s report and Allen’s statement on the matter; neither leaves much wiggle room.

Regardless of whether Cousins stays or goes, Allen said that it would be a mistake to dismiss the chances of third-string quarterback Colt McCoy making the final roster.

“He’s here to compete as well,” said Allen. “He has some very good leadership skills and has been working hard here. We’ve kept three quarterbacks here every year since I’ve been here and if he’s with our top 53 players he’ll be here all year.”

The three years that Jay Gruden was the offensive coordinator in Cincinnati the Bengals kept just two quarterbacks but that may or may not have been his preference.